Dobbin explosion reminder of propane safety

Jonathan Garris

Published
5:56 pm CDT, Tuesday, June 11, 2013

As investigators continue searching for answers in the explosion of a home in Dobbin Tuesday morning, Montgomery County residents may want to take the time to ensure their propane gas tanks are safe and secure.

Mark Mears, manager of Buster Brown Propane Service in New Caney, knows firsthand the importance of ensuring that propane tanks are properly cared for. The company has been part of the community since 1973 and provides refilling, maintenance and installation services to areas like Conroe and The Woodlands.

Mears encouraged residents to have leak tests performed on their tanks at least once a year. Flex lines behind stoves and appliances should also be checked regularly. There are also quick inspections that residents can do themselves to keep themselves and their property safe.

“Those that own their own propane tank can take a bottle of soapy water and sprinkle that on the propane tank around the tank’s fittings and on the line at the house,” Mears said. “If there is a leak, then the gas coming out of the fitting will cause the soapy mixture to bubble up.”

Residents should keep in mind that propane gas is heavier than air and will sink to the lowest point, Mears said. A person may not be able to smell a leak simply by walking around, so sniffing close to the floor to smell for propane can help determine if there is danger.

“However, nothing takes the place of having a routine leak test done,” Mears said.

If a person smells gas, then they should immediately leave the area and shut off the gas, Mears said. Residents should also avoid turning light switches on or off, as any electrical device can be a source of ignition.

“If there’s a light on, leave it on,” Mears said.

Wear and tear on equipment like regulators and copper can also lead to potential leaks. Mears stressed that residents need to exercise a “zero tolerance” approach to leaks.

“You can’t just say, oh, it’s just a small leak,” Mears said. “Any amount of propane can find a source of ignition that can lead to an explosion.”